Building Contracts

Entering into a building contract is one of the most significant decisions a homeowner or builder will make. At Rosendorff Lawyers, we specialise in comprehensive contract review services designed to protect your interests and ensure compliance with Australian laws. Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of the construction industry and is committed to providing you with the clarity and security you need.

Types of Building Contracts We Review

Domestic Building Contracts: We provide advice on popular templates from the Housing Industry Association (HIA) and Master Builders Australia (MBA). Our goal is to ensure these contracts safeguard your rights as a homeowner.

Custom Building Contracts: If you are entering into a custom contract tailored to your unique project, our team will meticulously review the terms to identify any clauses that could impose excessive risk or ambiguity.

Commercial Building Contracts: We also handle contracts for commercial projects, ensuring that all obligations, rights, and liabilities are clearly defined and legally compliant.

Subcontractor Agreements: For contractors, we review subcontractor agreements to ensure that payment terms, deliverables, and timelines are appropriately detailed to prevent disputes.

Variation Agreements: Changes to the original contract are common in construction. We help you understand these amendments, ensuring they are documented correctly and do not compromise your rights.

Payment Terms: We thoroughly examine the payment schedule, making sure it aligns with legal standards and protects you from unreasonable demands or unexpected costs.

Termination Clauses: Understanding the conditions under which a contract can be terminated is vital. We will outline the notice periods required and the consequences of termination for both parties.

Provisional or prime cost sums: We ensure that any provisional or prime cost sums included in the contract are clearly defined and justified. This includes a breakdown of estimated costs for materials or services that may not be fully determined at the time of contracting.

Liquidated Damages: We ensure that the contract includes clear provisions for liquidated damages in the event of delays or failures to meet project deadlines. By establishing liquidated damages, we protect your interests by providing a clear financial recourse for delays caused by the contractor, thereby incentivising timely project completion.

The Importance of Legal Advice

Not seeking legal advice before signing a building contract can lead to severe consequences, including disputes, unexpected costs, and project delays. Our team at Rosendorff Lawyers takes the time to explain the most important parts of your contract in clear language, ensuring you understand your obligations and rights.